Minnesota State News

Royce Lewis’ home run helps Twins win 13-7 over White Sox, who lose 20th in a row

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 04:04:25 +0000

The Twins finished off a three-game sweep of the Chicago White Sox, whose losing streak is one game away from the 1988 Orioles’ American League record.

Lakeville swimmer Regan Smith wins gold medal in women’s medley relay to cap her Olympics

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 04:03:59 +0000

Regan Smith helped the U.S. set a world record in the last event of the Olympic swimming competition, earning her fifth medal in Paris and the eighth of her career.

Minnesota United knocked out of Leagues Cup

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 23:55:52 +0000

After playing in five Leagues Cup matches last year, Minnesota United was bounced out of this year’s North American club tournament after only two group-stage matches.

With Necaxa’s 3-1 win over Seattle on Sunday, the Loons were eliminated from West Group 6; MNUFC beat Necaxa 1-0 on Tuesday, but had lost 2-1 to Sounders on July 26.

MNUFC would have advanced in any other scenario besides a Necaxa win by 1-3 goals. But with all three teams on three points, goal differential undid Minnesota’s chances to move on to the Round of 32.

Also, Seattle’s Lumen Field, where the Loons have lost all 10 MLS matches since 2017, continues to put a spell on United.

Instead, the Loons will get three weeks to train — a first uninterrupted period of work under first-year head coach Eric Ramsay, who joined the team midseason in March.

United will resume MLS play against Seattle at Allianz Field on Aug. 24 and will be able to put all of its resources into making the MLS Cup Playoffs this fall.

MNUFC is expected to have at least two new players available when league play resumes — striker Kelvin Yeboah and center back Jefferson Diaz. The Loons are also progressing toward signing right back Matus Kmet in the summer transfer window.

United looked likely to move on in Leagues Cup after 15 minutes Sunday night. Necaxa was down 2-0 through 15 minutes, but the second Sounders goal was disallowed after a VAR review and Necaxa scored two goals int he 24th and 44th minutes to take a 2-1 lead at the half.

Necaxa’s Kevin Rosero added a goal in the second minute of stoppage time.

One dead, one in custody after Moorhead stabbing

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 20:45:07 +0000

Police in Moorhead are investigating after a man was fatally stabbed early Sunday.

According to the Moorhead Police Department, officers responded to a report of a stabbing on the 1000 block of Third Avenue North just after midnight.

At the scene, officers found a man suffering from an apparent wound from a sharp object. The man was taken to Sanford Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His identity has not yet been released.

MPD also says a suspect was detained in connection with the stabbing. The victim and the suspect reportedly knew each other.

The incident is currently under investigation.

One dead, one in custody after crash, assault in north Minneapolis

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 20:44:11 +0000

One person was killed and another is in custody after a head-on crash in north Minneapolis led to an assault by a suspected drunk driver Saturday night.

According to the Minneapolis Police Department, officers responded to a two-vehicle, head-on crash at the intersection of Lowry Avenue North and James Avenue North at around 10:40 p.m.

The driver of a Dodge Journey allegedly crossed over the centerline of Lowry Avenue and struck an oncoming Dodge Durango. The driver of the Journey then assaulted one of the passengers in the Durango, according to MPD.

The driver and one of the passengers of the Durango were taken to North Memorial Health. The driver, a yet to be identified 31-year-old woman, died at the hospital.

The driver of the Journey, a 34-year-old man, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries before being booked into jail for suspected DWI and criminal vehicular homicide.

Byron Buxton crashed into the wall for another amazing grab — and appears no worse for wear

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 20:35:33 +0000

The Chicago White Sox were mounting a charge in their attempt to end their futile streak Sunday. After falling behind 8-0, Chicago scored the game’s next three runs and were threatening for more in the sixth inning.

Luis Robert Jr. was at the dish with two out and two runners on base when he drove a ball to center field.

Twins center fielder Byron Buxton raced back toward the wall, gauged his location and leapt. He hauled in the catch to end the threat and — as he’s wont to do — crashed into the wall as he squeezed his glove.

“Just the point of the game, trying to save runs and just turn that momentum around,” Buxton said. “Just one of those things where I’m trying to make a play and get us in the dugout for some at-bats, and just happy to hold onto the ball.”

Buxton added jumping into the wall is “part of the job — if you love it.”

After Buxton crashed into the wall, he went down to the ground, where he stayed momentarily. The initial reaction of the Target Field crowd was amazement, which quickly shifted to concern. But as Buxton then got up and ran toward the dugout, appreciation was evident. Fans rose to their feet and the Twins’ players stood outside of the dugout, all clapping for the effort they just witnessed.

“He almost makes it look normal. You see it all the time. When you have a Platinum Glover out there, he makes those plays look easy,” Twins pitcher Simeon Woods Richardson said. “So to have somebody out there like that who wants to run through a wall — who will run through a wall — is something special.”

Buxton was set to lead off for the Twins in the bottom of the sixth but didn’t. Manuel Margot pinch hit for him and then took over in center, which quickly led to speculation as to whether Buxton — who’s already played 85 games this season — was hurt.

Those concerns were put to rest postgame when manager Rocco Baldelli said Buxton was pulled for “precautionary reasons.”

“He didn’t get up that fast. Normally he gets up fast. If it was not as bad as it looked, he’ll just pop right up and jog in,” Baldelli said. “I think he hit the wall pretty hard and the last thing I want to do is find out we sent him up to the plate and shouldn’t have. … With the situation we were in, I wanted to make sure we got him fully looked over. He’s made a lot of good plays this year. That’s up there with the best of them.”

Baldelli said Buxton was looked at by trainers and there are no concerns beyond his lower back being “a little tight.”

Buxton was asked if he’d have to “wait and see” if he’d be available for the coming games in Chicago against the Cubs.

“Wait and see what?” Buxton asked.

“How you feel,” the reporter responded.

“I feel fine,” he said. “I’m smiling, I’m standing. Normally you don’t see me here (in the clubhouse postgame), do you?”

Indeed not. Buxton was making a statement with his presence. He made a play, he survived it and he was good to go. That’s been a constant for much of the Twins’ season, and is a reason Minnesota is currently in a position to make a postseason push.

“It makes the team feel like our muscles are bigger, you know what I mean? He singlehandedly does these types of things because he just makes us better,” Baldelli said. “The energy that he brings, it’s not like something that the guys in the clubhouse don’t feel. They feel it in a big way. When he’s out in center field for us, defensively he just makes everything more solid. When he comes to the plate swinging the bat the way that he is — I mean, he’s gotten himself to a really fantastic offensive place this year. He’s driving the ball, he’s hitting the ball, backing the ball up really well. He’s hitting off-speed pitches, he’s getting on top of fastballs. He’s doing a lot really well. He feels good. We’re going to keep him going. But when he’s out there playing like this, we’re just a much better team. He’s a great player and he feels great right now with what he’s doing.”

Buxton is clearly grateful for his health but noted he takes the season one day at a time and only focuses on what’s in his control.

“Every day, you ain’t going to feel good. Every day, you ain’t going to feel bad. So take it how they come,” he said. “I’m not saying a word about it, I’m not jinxing it. Take it one day at a time.”

Racist graffiti found on Rochester legislator’s home, Kamala Harris signs

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 19:46:42 +0000

State Rep. Kim Hicks also found black spray-painted swastikas on her home.

Twins hand White Sox their 20th straight loss in final meeting with Central cellar dweller

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 19:32:19 +0000

The Twins said goodbye to the Chicago White Sox for the remainder of the season on Sunday, leaving them with a not-so-fond farewell in the form of a 13-7 Minnesota victory at Target Field.

It was a familiar sendoff.

The loss was Chicago’s 20th straight. The White Sox are now one defeat away from tying the 1988 Orioles’ American League record for futility. The major league record belongs to the 1961 Phillies, who dropped 23 straight contests.

This year’s White Sox (27-87) keep some terrible company among the all-time worst teams in baseball. Their current winning percentage (.236) would rank second worst among teams in the modern era, which dates back to 1901, besting only the 1916 Philadelphia Athletics (36-117).

Credit to the Twins (62-48), who took full advantage of sharing a division with the deepest of cellar dwellers. Minnesota played the White Sox 13 times this season, and won 12 of the contests — capped by one last final sweep this weekend in Minneapolis.

That’s what had to make Sunday bittersweet for the Twins. Another win, yes, but the comfort of virtually guaranteed victory disappears as the White Sox drop off the schedule over the final two months.

The bats took advantage of the AL-worst pitching staff, tagging White Sox starter Chris Flexen (2-11) for eight runs in fewer than two innings. Only six of those were earned, as Flexen would’ve gotten through the first inning unfazed if not for a two-out error by second baseman Brooks Baldwin that allowed Max Kepler to reach base and Byron Buxton to score.

Not only does Chicago sport the highest ERA in the AL (4.85), but the White Sox also have the league’s second-worst fielding percentage (.983), ahead of only Boston.

Royce Lewis took Flexen deep in the second for his 13th homer of the year to put the Twins up 7-0. Jose Miranda and Willie Castro each had three hits on a day where every starter in the Twins’ starting lineup logged at least one hit. Minnesota compiled 14 hits while drawing nine walks.

Minnesota’s pitching staff wasn’t great Sunday. Simeon Woods Richardson followed up a short start against the Mets with a four-inning outing Sunday in which he allowed six hits and three runs while also walking three. Relievers Jorge Alcala and Randy Dobnak were also roughed up, while Cole Sands (5-1) pitched two scoreless innings after Woods Richardson.

It didn’t matter. There was never a point in which it felt as though the White Sox were going to win the game — not Sunday, not ever.

While Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said the team doesn’t consider a team’s record or losing streak ahead of a game, he conceded repeated success over a foe does breed confidence.

“I think that’s real, and it works the other way, too. We’ve battled against certain teams, and it feels like no matter what you do, we have those teams. And you’re looking for someone to do something big in that game to help you win the game, because if it’s tight, you haven’t come out on top,” Baldelli said. “I do think that is a thing. If you break it down, maybe some teams actually do match up against some teams better than other teams, and you might see some of that. Sometimes, it’s just kind of random. It could change halfway through a year. It could go on for a season or two.”

Along with the implementation of the expanded playoff format in 2023, Major League Baseball also decided to balance out the schedule, so intra-division dominance wouldn’t be such a determining factor for the three wild card spots. That meant divisional rivals would square off just 13 times in a single campaign, down from 19 in years past.

The White Sox ineptitude this season signals some impressive foresight from MLB, because both the Royals and Twins — Central teams currently occupying two of the three wild card positions in the AL — went 12-1 against Chicago, and are minimally above .500 against all other foes.

Allowing both teams to play six more games this season against such a hapless squad would’ve — in some way — jeopardized the pursuit of identifying the league’s seven true top teams.

Because there is no doubt as to who the worst team is. The 2024 White Sox are ineptitude personified.

The 2024 Twins thank them for their contributions to Minnesota’s current playoff positioning, and now bid them adieu.

“It’s baseball. Any team can win, lose, draw. It don’t matter. You play your game,” Buxton said. “We go out there and play our game, nobody can beat us.”

DNR, MN Pollution Control Agency investigating fish die-off in Duluth

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 18:31:15 +0000

An investigation is underway after neighbors discovered hundreds of dead fish in a Duluth creek this past week.

It happened Thursday in Tischer Creek, which is in the city's Hunters Park neighborhood. Also known as Congdon Creak, the designated trout stream is connected to Lake Superior and is known as a popular hiking attraction due to its scenic waterfalls.

According to the Duluth News Tribune, officials with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources counted "about 250 dead fish in about a quarter-mile stretch" of the creek, while other aquatic life — crayfish, invertebrates and others — have also died.

As the paper notes, "considerable construction" has been underway along the creek, including a bridge project and a stream diversion, but it's not yet clear what caused the die-off; fish and water samples have been collected for toxicology testing in St. Paul.

A post by a member of the Volunteer Water Monitors (MPCA) Facebook group indicates there were a "few dead fish" in the water as of Saturday morning, but "otherwise the creek looks mostly normal."

Both the DNR and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency are involved in the investigation.

Summertime fish kills can be caused by heat-induced oxygen depletion in the water, fertilizer runoff, industrial waste, sewage and toxic compounds, the U.S. Geological Survey notes.

Bring Me The News has reached out to DNR fisheries officials for more information.

Lakeville's Regan Smith and Team USA win 4x100m gold with world record

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 18:13:50 +0000

Lakeville, Minnesota's own Regan Smith earned her fifth medal of the 2024 Paris Olympics as Team USA set a world record en route to winning the gold medal in the women's 4x100m medley relay.

Serata da record nel nuoto per gli USA

Saints lose 11-inning marathon in Iowa series finale

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 17:55:14 +0000

The St. Paul Saints rallied with a game-tying home run in the ninth inning, then scored four runs in the 10th. But they still wound up losing to Iowa Cubs 10-9 in 11 innings Sunday in their International League series finale in Des Moines.

Trailing 4-3 in the ninth, Payton Eeles hit a solo homer to even the game for the Saints (54-53).

St. Paul briefly took command in the 10th thanks to run-scoring singles by Wynton Bernard and Alex Isola, then a two-run single by Eeles, giving him a career-high four runs batted in on the day

Iowa rallied to tie with four runs of its own in the 10th, thanks to an RBI single by Owen Caissie, an RBI double by Trayce Thompson, then a two-run homer by Chase Strumpf.

The Saints pulled ahead in the 11th on a sacrifice fly from Yunior Severino. But the Cubs’ Caleb Knight ended the marathon with a two-run homer in their half of the 11th.

The Saints return to action at 7:08 p.m. Tuesday when they open a six-game series against the Columbus Clippers at CHS Field.

Tornado damages homes, businesses in central Minnesota town

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 17:52:10 +0000

The EF1 tornado began Saturday outside of Melrose in Stearns County and damaged homes and businesses as it approached the city.

Fringe review: ‘As Above, So Below’ is breathtakingly powerful and disarmingly honest

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 16:27:40 +0000

Must see

In these days when mental health is more top-of-mind than any time in recent memory, Michael Rogers has created one of the most extraordinarily eloquent examinations of a psyche in the process of healing that you may ever encounter. Delivering a breathtaking tour-de-force of writing and acting in “As Above, So Below,” Rogers takes us into the converging crises that sent him into a spiral — a breakup, a mother treated for cancer and a father becoming a QAnon devotee — and turns them into an absolutely captivating monologue, rich with poetic descriptors and disarming emotional honesty. This is a powerful piece of theater.

Presented by Michael Rogers at Barbara Barker Center for Dance; 5:30 p.m. Aug. 5, 8:30 p.m. Aug. 8, 7 p.m. Aug. 10

Still trying to decide what to see? Check out all our Fringe reviews at twincities.com/tag/fringe-festival, with each show rated on a scale of Must See, Worth Considering, Could Be Worse or You Can Skip.

The Minnesota Fringe Festival is presenting more than 100 hourlong stage acts from Aug. 1–11 around Minneapolis. Visit MinnesotaFringe.org for ticket and show information.

Fringe Review: ‘The Light Bringer’ is an illuminating immigration story

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 16:25:55 +0000

Must see

Few memoirs in monologue prove as deeply absorbing as “The Light Bringer,” Laila Lee’s chronicle of her family’s emigration from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to Florida. It’s a grippingly-told tale of a clash between cultural and religious traditions and the process of “Americanization” she and her sisters experience. We drift in and out of a dark situation in which a tragedy has clearly occurred, offering a specter of unease amid Lee’s stories of how she and her siblings gradually rebel against their imam’s strict dictums regarding the rules for being a Muslim woman. It’s full of humor, warmth and heartbreaking honesty.

Presented by Light Bringer Productions at Mixed Blood Theatre; 10 p.m. Aug. 5, 8:30 p.m. Aug. 9, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 10

The Minnesota Fringe Festival is presenting more than 100 hourlong stage acts from Aug. 1–11 around Minneapolis. Visit MinnesotaFringe.org for ticket and show information.

Fringe review: Among standup routines, ‘Least Likely to Succeed’ succeeds better than most

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 16:25:16 +0000

Worth Considering

Tristan Miller’s “Least Likely to Succeed: Tales from a Midwestern Homeschooler” is, basically, a standup comedy routine, but this young New Yorker wields a razor wit as he ruminates on the education he received at home in Rochester, Minn., before landing in New Zealand for some enjoyable cultural comparisons and contrasts. Miller is a very entertaining commentator (especially when taking the audience to church), but he could use a little more confidence in his often very strong material: He has a very funny way of presenting familiar Midwestern tendencies, as if through the eyes of a clever cultural anthropologist.

Presented by Tristan Miller at Bryant Lake Bowl; 8:30 p.m. Aug. 4, 10 p.m. Aug. 5, 7 p.m. Aug. 9, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 11

The Minnesota Fringe Festival is presenting more than 100 hourlong stage acts from Aug. 1–11 around Minneapolis. Visit MinnesotaFringe.org for ticket and show information.

Twins’ switch-hitting Brooks Lee happy to finally see success from left side of the plate

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 16:24:40 +0000

The switch-hitting Brooks Lee has generally been more consistent from the left side of the plate than the right during his minor league career.

So, the results since being called up to the Minnesota Twins have been a little surprising.

The rookie infielder entered Saturday’s game hitting .209 as a left-handed hitter.

“Just struggled a little bit,” Lee said. “I’ve been getting a lot of stuff on the outer half of the plate, so I think I was trying to go get it a bunch of the time.”

He’s trying to make an effort now to wait for his pitch and attack. The early returns are positive. Lee delivered a pair of RBI singles — the first coming while hitting from the left side — in Minnesota’s 6-2 win Saturday over the White Sox, including a two-out single in the eighth to effectively put the game on ice.

“I definitely feel better. Right hand has been better since I’ve been up,” Lee said. “But yeah, just trying to get the left hand going and I felt better in that at-bat.”

Lee cooled a bit after his blistering start with the Twins when he was called up in early July. But manager Rocco Baldelli said the 23-year-old has “done everything that we can ask him to do to come in and help stabilize our team.”

“We’re also having a young guy come in not to play on occasion or to match up. We’ve basically played him every single day because we’ve needed to play him every single day,” Baldelli said. “He’s handled it well. He’s done a really nice job defensively. I think he’s learning a lot about major league pitching and how he’s going to be attacked on the offensive side.”

Working in Lee’s favor, per Baldelli, is that he’s a perceptive player with a “really good mind.” Baldelli sees Lee figure things out from pitch to pitch and at-bat to at-bat. But adjusting at the plate in your first looks at major league pitchers is a stiff test for any player.

“It’s much more challenging than anything he’s ever seen. It’s going to take some amount of time for him to get where he needs to be, to see how he’s going to be pitched, to understand what he’s going to do about it and the changes he’s going to make,” Baldelli said. “I’ve been very pleased with what I’ve seen from him overall. He’s handled it all very well. Doesn’t mean it’s not a challenge, but he’s handled it all the way that we want.”

Baldelli was asked if being a switch hitter makes the transition for Lee more difficult. Baldelli believes the opposite is true.

“They have it easier than anybody else. I believe that. I do. To keep two swings straight, is that more work sometimes? Yes. Can you lose one? Yeah. There are parts of that that are more strenuous, maybe. I don’t know the best way to say it.,” Baldelli said. “You’re facing the better matchup every single at-bat. You are going to be put in better positions to succeed if you’re a good switch-hitter. I think he’s a good switch-hitter. So I think this will be good for him. It’s going to be an advantage for him going forward. I don’t think of it as it makes their life more difficult for the switch-hitters than for anybody else. I kind of look at it, over time, the other way.”

Family trip…for some

The Twins’ trip to Chicago to face the Cubs starting Monday marks the annual family trip for the team.

Baldelli noted the manager’s family “sometimes” takes part in the trip. That will not be the case for his crew this time around. Baldelli has three young children, the oldest of which just turned 3 last month.

“We discussed it thoroughly. We almost pulled the trigger on it, too,” Baldelli said. “But it would’ve been an immense amount of work — almost to like prove that we could do it. That would’ve been the whole trip. The whole trip would’ve been 72 hours of proving to ourselves that we could pull this off, and that’s it.”

Baldelli surmised that neither he nor his wife would’ve slept for three days.

“It would’ve been a battle,” he joked.

Fringe review: ‘The Camp Out’ characters are friends who, like the improvised show itself, are a bit messy

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 16:23:43 +0000

Worth considering

In the woods of Falling Willows State Park, six childhood friends gather to remember their dead friend Brian and air out some dirty laundry along the way. An improvised show, “The Camp Out” bounces our attention from one out-of-touch friend to the next, until the group reconciles. Brief moments of silence felt awkwardly real. Cast members quickly recovered by circling back to their dead friend or previous crowd-pleasing jokes involving sexual innuendoes, Honda CRVs or one dumb, unaware character. The show had a well-set scene and bustling castmates who did not let the stage mark the end of where they could go.

Presented by Mike Fotis Productions at Mixed Blood Theatre; 7 p.m. Aug 4, 10 p.m. Aug 7, 2:30 p.m. Aug 10.

The Minnesota Fringe Festival is presenting more than 100 hourlong stage acts from Aug. 1–11 around Minneapolis. Visit MinnesotaFringe.org for ticket and show information.

Which players have stood out at Vikings training camp so far?

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 16:00:40 +0000

It’s hard to believe the Vikings play a preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Saturday at U.S. Bank Stadium.

That will give the coaching staff perhaps its best chance yet to evaluate where some of the position battles stand.

In the meantime, the Vikings will continue to work their way through training camp at TCO Performance Center, knowing there is still a lot of room for improvement in all phases.

Here are some players who have stood out so far:

Sam Darnold

Though there have been some ups and downs for veteran quarterback Sam Darnold, he has definitely found his stride as of late. He has followed multiple solid efforts in camp with another impressive effort. Maybe the most promising thing is that Darnold is clearly building chemistry with star receiver Justin Jefferson. The two of them have produced a number of highlights in training camp to this point. No doubt the Vikings hope that continues moving forward.

J.J. McCarthy

After focusing on his fundamentals in the spring, rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy has been much improved in the summer. He looks confident under center in training camp and has already proven to have a good grasp of the offense. There have been way more good practices than bad ones for McCarthy, which is a good sign for the Vikings as he continues to learn the ropes of the position. The arm talent isn’t a question as he has shown he can sling it with the best of them. The next step is developing the touch needed to succeed at the highest level.

Jalen Nailor

There is still a legitimate competition for the receiver spot alongside Jefferson and Jordan Addison. That said, speedy receiver Jalen Nailor might be the fastest receiver the Vikings have, and he appears to be running ahead of the pack midway through training camp. He’s slowly started to separate himself by making big plays on a daily basis. The biggest challenge for Nailor throughout his career has been staying healthy. If he can finally do that, he could end up playing a pivotal role on offense.

Theo Jackson

If anybody has attended a practice at training camp, they have more than likely noticed safety Theo Jackson. He has been extremely hard to miss as he seems to make an interception whenever he’s targeted. Though that might be a bit of hyperbole, Jackson has clearly established himself as a rotational player who could make a big impact on defense. The rise of Jackson is good news for the Vikings and likely bad news for young safety Lewis Cine and his chances of making the team.

Will Reichard

There wasn’t much of a kicking competition in training camp as the Vikings have handed the keys to rookie kicker Will Reichard. After surprisingly missing a pair of field-goal attempts last week, Reichard was very impressive over the weekend, going 6 for 6 on field-goal attempts. Now he needs to prove he can do it in live action.

Fentanyl’s grip in Minnesota extends even to young children who ingest the drug with fatal consequences

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

State and local data suggest more youth have been poisoned or killed by the drug in recent years.

Damage in Melrose after reported tornado touchdown

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 15:16:34 +0000

An apparent tornado tore through the town of Melrose in west-central Minnesota on Saturday night, leaving parts of the town badly damaged.

"When it hit I was gathering my animals to get them in my basement and saw debris flying all around outside. It was crazy," Trevor Singleton, whose home sustained minor damage, including a tree on his garage, told Bring Me The News.

Singleton captured numerous damage photos from around town. The area hit hardest appears to be near Melrose Metalworks, located at 318 8th Ave. NW on the west side of town.

View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article

Singleton said metalworks buildings were completely destroyed by the tornado, which was confirmed by a trained spotter who reported the twister was on the ground for approximately four minutes.

"Definitely tore up the town quick," Singleton said.

The tornado-warned storm was one of two supercells that tracked southeast across Minnesota on Saturday. The storms formed in central Minnesota and dropped hail the size of baseballs and golf balls in Wadena and Grey Eagle, later producing tornado warnings in Stearns, Kandiyohi and Meeker counties.

Atwater, a town of about 1,100 people located about 40 miles south of Melrose, was also hit by damaging winds and large hail. The Atwater area was under a tornado warning but it is unclear if there was a tornado touchdown.

The other supercell wasn't as intense but it tracked over the western Twin Cities metro and was the reason the Basilica Block Party ended earlier than scheduled.

Feds estimate Minnesota overpaid about $430 million in unemployment benefits during pandemic

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 15:00:00 +0000

At the same time, the state’s overpayment and fraud rates for jobless insurance were estimated to be among the lowest in the country.

Last to go, Suni Lee dazzles to win uneven bars medal in Paris

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 14:31:31 +0000

Suni Lee needed to score a 14.766 or better to win a medal in the uneven bars final at the Paris Olympics on Sunday and the St. Paul native, who was the last finalist to go, was up to the challenge.

Suni Lee wins an uneven bars bronze medal with a fantastic routine in the final! #ParisOlympics

State representative's Rochester home vandalized with racial slurs, hate speech

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 13:42:07 +0000

The home of a Minnesota state representative was vandalized with swastikas and other racist imagery over the weekend in Rochester.

On Saturday morning, Rep. Kim Hicks (D-25A) posted photos of the vandalism on Facebook, saying "the racist(s) in this community acted":

"They are fear mongering," Hicks wrote in a separate Facebook post. "They wore masks because they are ashamed of what they believe. We knock doors. We talk to neighbors. We are not ashamed of who we are."

Hicks, who is married to a Black man and has Black children, told the Rochester Post Bulletin that the last thing she wants is to "expose her family to something like this."

She also told the paper she believes this was a planned attack — as Rochester "has been having a bit of a racial reckoning" — and was unequivocal about the nature of the incident, calling it a "racially motivated hate crime."

Hicks added that she has faith the Rochester Police Department and Olmsted County attorney will find and prosecute the perpetrators.

According to KAAL TV, Rochester police as well as federal authorities are now investigating the crime.

Per the station, Rochester PD says "there is no evidence to suggest the Rep. Hicks or her family staged the vandalism."

2 people injured as St. Paul fire truck collides with car

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 12:58:11 +0000

Two people are hospitalized following a crash between a passenger vehicle and a fire truck in St. Paul.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the crash happened just before 7 p.m. Saturday when the fire engine, which was en route to a fire emergency, collided with a Chevy Malibu at the intersection of 7th and Cedar streets in downtown.

Two adults in the latter vehicle had to be extricated by the firefighters, per the St. Paul Fire Department. Both were taken to Regions Hospital for treatment, the department says.

The two occupants of the Malibu, a 76-year-old woman and a 77-year-old man, received non-life-threatening injuries.

The State Patrol is now investigating the crash.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

Where your favorite Twin Cities food trucks will be the week of Aug. 5

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 12:51:34 +0000

Over the next couple of weeks, you'll find food trucks gathering for festivals where you can try a whole bunch of the area's best mobile kitchens. You can even get in some late-summer fireworks if you this week's Eagan Food Truck Festival.

For the rest of the week, bookmark this calendar, because we've got details on where you can find 142 food trucks over the next seven days.

As always, schedules change rapidly with food trucks. Please confirm your truck of choice is going to be there before hopping in the car.

2 Cavemen Grill'in

Aug. 9: Mineral Springs Brewery in Owatonna, 4–8 p.m.

612 Teppanyaki

The truck brings Japanese hibachi/teppanyaki food around the Twin Cities.

Aug. 6: InBound Brew Co. in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 7: Insight Brewing in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.

All Square

This truck serves up a whole host of grilled cheeses.

Aug. 9: Brühaven Brewing in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 11: Arbeiter Brewing in Minneapolis, 2–8 p.m.

Amazing Momo

The truck serves a variety of Tibetan dumplings.

Aug. 9: Eagan Food Truck Festival in Eagan, 4–9 p.m.

Anchor Fish and Chips

The mobile version of the Northeast Minneapolis restaurant specializes in, surprise, fish and chips.

Aug. 6: 301 NE 13th Ave. in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 7: 301 NE 13th Ave. in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 9: Irish Fair of Minnesota at Harriet Island in St. Paul, 3–11 p.m.
Aug. 10: Irish Fair of Minnesota at Harriet Island in St. Paul, 10 a.m.–11 p.m.
Aug. 11: Irish Fair of Minnesota at Harriet Island in St. Paul, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.

Burger from Angry Line Cook

Courtesy of Angry Line Cook

Angry Line Cook

The angry truck dishes up burgers with its signature angry sauce.

Aug. 7: Food Truck Wednesdays at Rice Park in St. Paul, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Aug. 8: The White Squirrel Bar in Minneapolis, 6–9 p.m.
Aug. 9: Mick’s Bottle Shop grand re-opening in St. Paul, 4–7 p.m.
Aug. 10: The White Squirrel Bar in Minneapolis, 12–8 p.m.
Aug. 11: BlackStack Brewing in St. Paul, 1–7 p.m.

Animales Barbeque

Aug. 7–9: Bauhaus Brew Labs in Minneapolis, 4:30–8:30 p.m.
Aug. 10: Bauhaus Brew Labs in Minneapolis, 12–8 p.m.

Animales Burger Co.

Aug. 10: 56 Brewing in Minneapolis, 4–9 p.m.

Bad Rooster

The truck serves chicken sandwiches, tenders, and wings with an emphasis on locally sourced food and working with farms that have high standards for the humane treatment of animals.

Aug. 7: Downtown Chaska Farmers Market in Chaska, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 8: SPS Tower in Minneapolis, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Aug. 9: Eagan Food Truck Festival in Eagan, 4–9 p.m.
Aug. 10: Nershfest at InBound Brew Co. in Minneapolis, 12–10 p.m.

Banh Sizzle

It serves fresh Vietnamese street food made right in front of you. Give the bánh xèo a try.

Aug. 10: Mill City Farmers Market in Minneapolis, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

Bao Bao Buns

Aug. 6: 56 Brewing in Minneapolis, 5–8 p.m.
Aug. 10: Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival in Minneapolis
Aug. 11: Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival in Minneapolis

Big Daddy's Rockin' Q

Aug. 10: Garphish Brewing in Bethel, 12–8 p.m.

Big Red Wagon

Aug. 8: Under Pressure Brewing in Golden Valley, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 10: BlackStack Brewing in St. Paul, 1–7 p.m.

Black Market STP

Aug. 9: 120 Plato Blvd West in St. Paul, 5–7 p.m.

Bravis Craft Mexican Kitchen

Aug 10: Back Channel Brewing in Spring Park, 12–9 p.m.

Brick Oven Bus

This instantly-recognizable "truck" serves brick oven pizzas from repurposed yellow school buses with a brick chimney poking out of the roof.

Aug. 6: Brandtjen Farms in Lakeville, 5–8 p.m.
Aug. 7: Renewal by Anderson in Cottage Grove, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.; Forgotten Star Brewing in Fridley, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; Venn Brewing in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.; and Bloomington Farmers Market in Bloomington, 5–8 p.m.
Aug. 8: Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.; Angry Inch Brewing in Lakeville, 4–8 p.m.; and Live at the Rog in Roseville, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Aug. 9: Nine Mile Brewing in Bloomington, 4–8 p.m., Imminent Brewing in Northfield, 4–8 p.m.; North 20 Brewing in Rosemount, 4–8 p.m.; and Prior Lake Days in Prior Lake, 5–9 p.m.
Aug. 10: Utepils Brewing in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.; Prior Lake Days in Prior Lake, 12–9 p.m.; Big Wood Brewery in Vadnais Heights, 12–8 p.m.; Luce Line Brewing in Plymouth, 12–8 p.m.
Aug. 11: Angry Inch Brewing in Lakeville, 12–6 p.m.; and Stillwater Bike Rally in Stillwater, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Brisbane's Revenge

Aug. 8: 10K Brewing in Anoka, 3–8 p.m.
Aug. 9: Carriage Oaks Apartments in Blaine, 5–8 p.m.

Brothers Gutierrez

Aug. 7: Back Shed Brewing in Waite Park, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 9: Back Shed Brewing in Waite Park, 4–8 p.m.

Buddy's Burritos & Bowls

Build your own burrito, bowl, taco in a bag, nachos, or southwestern salad at this truck, where the food is all made from scratch.

Aug. 7: The Ledge Amphitheater in Waite Park, 6–10 p.m.
Aug. 8: Spilled Grain Brewhouse in Annandale, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 9: The Ledge Amphitheater in Waite Park, 6–10 p.m.
Aug. 10: Bad Habit Brewing in St. Joseph, 12–8 p.m.; and The Ledge Amphitheater in Waite Park, 6–10 p.m.

Burro Loco

It's a one-stop-shop for food truck staples with a twist: Brisket burgers, carnitas burritos, taco salad, nachos, loaded tacos, churros...

Aug. 9: Pokegama Shores RV Park in Pine City, 3–7 p.m.

Cafe Cairo

Aug. 9: Eagan Food Truck Festival in Eagan, 4–9 p.m.

California Dip and Eat

Aug. 9: Eagan Food Truck Festival in Eagan, 4–9 p.m.

Cane and Cotton

Aug. 7: Concert in the Commons in Excelsior

Chef Shack

Aug. 10: Mill City Farmers Market in Minneapolis, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

Chili Lime

The truck serves street tacos in corn tortillas, as well as delightfully loaded tots.

Aug. 5: 12490 Champlin Dr. in Champlin, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Aug. 6: 12490 Champlin Dr. in Champlin, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Aug. 7: Lupulin Brewing in Big Lake, hours TBD; and 12490 Champlin Dr. in Champlin, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Aug. 9: Sapsucker Farms in Mora, hours TBD; and Sunken Ship Brewing in Princeton, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 11: 56 Brewing in Minneapolis, 12–6 p.m.

La Choza

Aug. 5: Trove Brewing in Burnsville, 4–8 p.m.

Cloud 9 Energy Bowls

They have an expansive menu of superfood bowls, offering a surprisingly healthy option for the food truck world.

Aug. 7: Anoka Dance Team Food Truck Festival in Anoka, 4–7 p.m.
Aug. 9: St. Michael Daze & Knights Festival in St. Michael, 8 a.m.–10 p.m.
Aug. 10: St. Michael Daze & Knights Festival in St. Michael, 8 a.m.–10 p.m.

Cluck N Cups

The family-owned truck serves broaster chicken tenders with dipping sauces.

Aug. 9: Strains of the Earth in Jordan, 12–8 p.m.
Aug. 10: Trove Brewing in Burnsville, 1–7 p.m.
Aug. 11: Boathouse Brothers Brewing in Prior Lake, hours TBD

La Cochinita

Aug. 7: 56 Brewing in Minneapolis, 4:30–8 p.m.

The Corn Dog Company

Aug. 9: Strains of the Earth in Jordan, 12–8 p.m.

Crepe and Cake

French-inspired crepes, cakes, and chocolates.

Aug. 8: Maple Grove Farmers Market in Maple Grove, 3–7 p.m.
Aug. 11: Golden Valley Farmers Market in Minneapolis, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Cuchillo

Aug. 6: Wandering Leaf Brewing in St. Paul, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 8: Insight Brewing in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.

Egg Roll Queen

The beloved truck offers chicken, pork, vegetable, and dessert (!) egg rolls, as well as fried rice.

Aug. 8: Food Truck Night at Muddy Paws in St. Louis Park, 5–8 p.m.

Emconada

Aug. 9: Utepils Brewing in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.

Fatbellies BBQ

Aug. 9: Mousse Sparkling Wine Co. in Jordan, 4–9 p.m.

Fire Pot

Aug. 11: Sapsucker Farms in Mora, 12–6 p.m.

Flaming Bowl Food Truck

Aug. 7: Elm Creek Brewing in Champlin, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 9: Dayton Car Show in Dayton, 5–8 p.m.

Flo's Eats

Aug. 7: The Commons in Minneapolis, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Aug. 8: 800 Nicollet Ave. in Downtown Minneapolis, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Aug. 9: Fairview Children's Hospital in Minneapolis, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Aug. 10: Food Truck Fest! at HeadFlyer Brewing in Minneapolis, 2–8 p.m.

Fused Craft Brewed Eats

Aug. 9: Under Pressure Brewing in Golden Valley, 4–8 p.m.

G-Spot

Aug. 8: Alloy Brewing in Coon Rapids, 5–8 p.m.
Aug. 9: 10K Brewing in Anoka, 3–8 p.m.
Aug. 11: 10K Brewing in Anoka, 1–6 p.m.

Garillers

Aug. 9: Giesenbräu Bier Co. in New Prague, 3–7 p.m.

Gerhard's Brats

Aug. 7: Utepils Brewing in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 10: Insight Brewing in Minneapolis, 2–8 p.m.
Aug. 11: InBound Brew Co. in Minneapolis, 12–6 p.m.

Mini donuts from Goodies on the Go food truck

Courtesy of Goodies on the Go

Goodies on the Go

The brightly-colored truck is run by Rob Aiello, who is also behind Griddle on the Go. Goodies offers gluten-free treats, state fair style, including mini donuts, corn dogs, and cheese curds.

Aug. 6: National Night Out in Maple Grove, 5–8 p.m.
Aug. 8: The Draw in Ramsey, 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; and Summer Concert Series in Champlin, 5–9 p.m.
Aug. 9: Aegir Brewing in Elk River, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 10: Aegir Brewing in Elk River, 4–8 p.m.

Grandpa Mike's Pizza

Aug. 7: Chisago County Gov’t Center in Center City, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.; and Uncommon Loon Brewing in Chisago City, 4–8 p.m.

Griddle on the Go

It’s got greasy spoon staples like burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, and fries.

Aug. 8: Elm Creek Brewing in Champlin, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 11: Elm Creek Brewing in Champlin, 12–8 p.m.

Habanero Tacos

The Lake Street taco shop also has wheels, bringing tacos, burritos, and bowls to events around the Twin Cities.

Aug. 7: Bad Weather Brewery in St. Paul, 4–8 p.m.

HaDa Foodie

Aug. 9: Eagan Food Truck Festival in Eagan, 4–9 p.m.
Aug. 11: Trove Brewing in Burnsville, 12–5 p.m.

Hana Bistro

Aug. 6: Utepils Brewing in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 7: Luce Line Brewing in Plymouth, 4–8:30 p.m.

Heavy Metal Grill

Aug. 7: Live at the Lake in Lakeville, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 10: Treasure Island Casino for Brooks & Dunn in Welch, 4–11 p.m.
Aug. 11: Bloomington Normandale Bandshell in Minneapolis, 4-6:30 p.m.

Hickory Brick Pizza

Aug. 10: Paddlefish Brewing in St. Peter, 12–8 p.m.

Hodgepodge

Aug. 5–6: Forgotten Star Brewing in Fridley, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Aug. 8–10: Forgotten Star Brewing in Fridley, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Aug. 11: Forgotten Star Brewing in Fridley, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

Hometown Creamery

Aug. 9: Eagan Food Truck Festival in Eagan, 4–9 p.m.

El Huarache Mexicano

Aug. 6: Brühaven in Minneapolis, 4–8 p.m.

iPierogi

Aug. 9: Eagan Food Truck Festival in Eagan, 4–9 p.m.

Jamisons Hibachi Kitchen

Aug. 8: 3100 Brookdale Dr. N in Brooklyn Park, 2–8 p.m.
Aug. 9: 3100 Brookdale Dr. N in Brooklyn Park, 2–8 p.m.
Aug. 10: 3100 Brookdale Dr. N in Brooklyn Park, 2–8 p.m.

El Jefe

Aug. 10: Prior Lake Farmers Market in Prior Lake, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
Aug. 11: Bad Weather Brewery in St. Paul, 1–6 p.m.

Junebug Carolina Flare

The truck promises southern flavors from the Carolinas “with a dash of Minnesota nice,” serving fried chicken sandwiches, pulled pork, and more.

Aug. 8: Luce Line Brewing in Plymouth, 4–8 p.m.
Aug. 9: New Hope Food Truck Fridays in New Hope, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.; and Insight Brewing in Minneapolis, 4– 8 p.m.
Aug. 10: Minnesota Garlic Festival in Hutchinson, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Aug. 11: Wild Mind Ales in Minneapolis, 12–7 p.m.

Kabomel

Workers at 4 Café Ceres locations vote to unionize

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 12:39:00 +0000

Baristas at Café Ceres have voted to unionize with Unite Here 17.

The union, which represents service industry workers in Minnesota, announced the results of the election on Saturday, Aug. 3.

Workers at four Café Ceres locations, as well as Colita, informed Chef Daniel Del Prado's DDP Restaurant Group of their intention to unionize in June. The company did not voluntarily recognize either union, forcing a vote overseen by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Say HELLO to your newest unionized baristas!

Today workers at all 4 Café Ceres locations voted UNION YES! CONGRATULATIONS!!! pic.twitter.com/7KgLy5IZYV
— UNITE HERE Local 17 (@UNITEHERE17) August 3, 2024

Unite Here says that there are roughly 30 baristas employed across the four cafes. A majority, 88%, of voting workers opted in favor of unionization in Saturday's election. The two sides will now work to negotiate a contract.

“I feel really proud today,” Mariam Karkache, lead barista at Café Ceres lead barista, said in a statement. “For too long my work has been dismissed as unskilled, and baristas like me disrespected and undervalued. But I’ve found the path to get the dignity and stable career I’ve always deserved — and that’s through a union. I hope this sends a message to other service and restaurant workers in the Twin Cities and beyond about what we all deserve.”

Representatives for DDP did not respond to a request for comment.

Cafe Ceres

Photo by Dustin Nelson

The results of the vote from Colita workers are still pending. The union says the NLRB hasn't yet set a date for a hearing to resolve provisional ballots challenged by DDP Restaurant Group.

The results come on the heels of other summer victories for local unions. Earlier this week, Minneapolis park workers approved a new contract with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board that came after a 22-day strike. MPRB commissioners are expected to approve the contract during an Aug. 7 meeting.

Earlier this summer, workers at Chef Ann Kim's restaurant Kim's voted in favor of unionization with Unite Here 17 after the restaurant declined to voluntarily recognize the union. Shortly after that vote, Kim's stopped offering lunch service and closed Bronto Bar "due to a decline in business," the company told Bring Me The News.

Officials search for missing 31-year-old last seen in South St. Paul

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 12:36:04 +0000

Officials are asking for the public’s help to find a missing 31-year-old man last seen in South St. Paul.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension issued a missing person alert for Adam Wallin on Friday.

Wallin was last seen on foot near the 1100 block of Bryant Avenue on Wednesday. He is described as bald, 5’3” tall and weighs 200 pounds.

Minnesota BCA

Wallin is not believed to have cellular service or medication with him, according to the alert.

Anyone with information on his location is encouraged to call 911.

Aerosmith retire from touring, cancel St. Paul show

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 12:34:20 +0000

Anyone hoping to catch Aerosmith live one last time will have to dream on.

Aerosmith's "Peace Out: The Farewell Tour" has been canceled, including the band's Jan. 22 show at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, the band announced on Friday.

While singer Steven Tyler has worked to bounce back from a vocal cord injury, he has not been able to recover to the extent that the band can continue to tour.

It was 1970 when a spark of inspiration became Aerosmith. Thanks to you, our Blue Army, that spark caught flame and has been burning for over five decades. Some of you have been with us since the beginning and all of you are the reason we made rock ‘n’ roll history.

It has been… pic.twitter.com/og43Q8Lwbt
— Aerosmith (@Aerosmith) August 2, 2024

"We've always wanted to blow your mind when performing, " the band wrote on social media. "[Tyler] has spent months tirelessly working on getting his voice to where it was before his injury. We've seen him struggling despite having the best medical team by his side. Sadly, it is clear, that a full recovery from his vocal injury is not possible. We have made a heartbreaking and difficult, but necessary, decision — as a band of brothers — to retire from the touring stage."

The farewell tour was announced in May 2023 and started with a September show in Philadelphia. However, on the third night of the tour, Tyler hurt his vocal cords. The band postponed tour dates. In speaking with doctors afterward, further damage was discovered and the tour was ultimately canceled.

In April, new dates were announced with The Black Crowes — who were supposed to appear at this summer's Minnesota Yacht Club Festival but canceled at the last minute.

Fans who purchased tickets through Ticketmaster will automatically receive a refund. Anyone who purchased tickets through platforms like SeatGeek, StubHub, and VividSeats will need to reach out to the company for details.

Dog parks, Diet Dew and car sickness: A collection of tidbits about Gov. Tim Walz

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Here are some offbeat and significant details about the Minnesota DFL governor — now on the short list as a potential vice presidential pick — from those who see him often.

Saturday night severe thunderstorm watch includes the Twin Cities

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 23:49:39 +0000

9:10 p.m. update

The strongest cell is moving from Stearns County into Kandiyohi and Meeker counties and continues to pose a threat of dropping large hail and pushing out strong winds.

The eastern side of the cluster of storms appears to be weakening and is no longer severe, though it is still producing heavy rain, frequent lightning and perhaps some small hail and gusty winds.

Original story

The Twin Cities metro area is included in a severe thunderstorm watch issued by the National Weather Service on Saturday evening.

The watch, which also includes the middle section of Minnesota, was issued at 6:25 p.m. and is in effect until 1 a.m. Sunday. At 6:40 p.m., severe thunderstorms were located in the Brainerd area and moving east-southeast at 30 mph. Those storms posed the threat of large hail and 60 mph wind gusts.

"Isolated to scattered thunderstorms are forecast to continue to develop and move east-southeast through the evening," says the National Weather Services.

"Supercells capable of large to very large hail (diameter 1 to 2.5 inches) and severe gusts (60-70 mph) will be the primary storm mode through the early evening. Upscale growth into a linear cluster may occur later this evening with severe gusts possibly becoming the main hazard."

Take a look at how the HRRR model below predicts the radar to evolve over the course of the night. It suggests the strongest cells could remain west of the Twin Cities, though take it with a grain of salt.

WeatherBell

The storm threat in the metro should be over with by about 10-11 p.m.

Sens. Bernie Sanders, Tina Smith rally in Minneapolis for Rep. Ilhan Omar

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 21:35:55 +0000

Hundreds gathered in Minneapolis on Saturday to see Sens. Bernie Sanders, Tina Smith, and Rep. Ilhan Omar join forces for their "Get Out the Vote" rally.

Senator Sanders finished his trip to Minnesota with a rally at noon at Rep. Omar's alma mater, Thomas Edison High School. This follows a town hall on Friday at the University of Minnesota campus in Mankato.

Minnesota's primary elections are on August 13, and the rally focused on encouraging young voters to organize in support of Omar’s reelection and defeat her primary opponent, former Minneapolis City Council member Don Samuels.

Sens. Sanders and Smith emphasized how important it was to encourage community members to vote in the presidential and primary elections, with Smith praising Omar as "one of the best of us."

From left to right: Representative Ilhan Omar, Senator Bernie Sanders and Senator Tina Smith

Izzy Canizares

Omar criticized Samuels for his past comments on public school inequity in Minneapolis, once controversially stating: "I’ve said burn North High School down!"

"I would not be who I am today without the care and guidance of the educators who made me believe anything is possible," Omar said. "Unlike my opponent I will always have the back of educators.”

Ilhan Omar at Thomas Edison Highschool

Izzy Canizares

The fight for affordable healthcare and accessible abortions was also one of the big talking points made during the rally, with both Senator Sanders and Smith having petitioned for it in Congress.

"Healthcare is a human right," Sanders said. "We need to guarantee healthcare for every man, woman and child and we need to move to a Medicare single-payer system.

However, the biggest fight, Sanders said, was against the Trump Administration, and ensuring he does not win the election in November.

“We cannot have a convicted felon as president,” Sanders said. "Trump is an authoritative personality that has spent years trying to undermine the very foundation of American democracy."

Phone banking and "door-knocking" activities were held after the rally, with another full day of volunteering on Sunday and Monday. Activities include door-knocking with Council President Elliot Payne and phone banking with both Rep. Omar and activist and actress Jane Fonda.

"Your voices are powerful," Smith told audience members. "You're organizers; you know how to get shit done."

"I am begging you this afternoon to remember that our struggle is not over when Kamala gets elected. We are taking on the greed of a billionaire class," Sanders said. "If we stand together as working-class people, we can win this thing."

"I have always been a big Bernie supporter, he talks about making sure those on the fringes are supported," says community member David Vott, who saw Sanders' town hall in Mankato the night before accompanied by his family.

"I think the younger turnout is really important, I think it can be the make-or-break in this election," says University of Minnesota law student, Sophie Herrmann. "Part of why I and others are drawn to Ilhan and Bernie is because they actually care about the youth vote and the issues that are impacting us."

Rosemount's Payton Otterdahl narrowly misses podium in Olympic shot put finals

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 19:24:14 +0000

Rosemount native Payton Otterdahl finished just off the podium in the men's shot put finals at the Paris Olympics on Saturday. He stood in third place with a long throw of 22.03 meters heading into the final round of throws, but American teammate Joe Kovacs reached 22.15 meters to get on the podium and knock Otterdahl off of it.

For the third consecutive Olympic games, Americans Ryan Crouser and Kovacs took the gold and silver medals, respectively. Crouser, who came in as the heavy favorite once again, led the field with a throw of 22.90 meters. Jamaican Rajindra Campbell won the bronze medal this year.

Ah, man… that’s a heartbreaker for Rosemount’s Payton Otterdahl.

He stood 3rd going to the final throws in the shot put, but fellow American Joe Kovacs - in the rain, no less - pipped him from bronze.

Another American, Ryan Crouser, won his 3rd straight Olympic gold. pic.twitter.com/FOQqnpw4zL
— Chris Long (@ChrisLongKSTP) August 3, 2024

2016 Olympic men's shot put: Ryan Crouser

Minneapolis and St. Paul rank near the top of most accessible U.S. cities

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 19:07:02 +0000

Minneapolis and St. Paul rank near the top of best U.S. cities for individuals with accessibility needs, according to a new study from Forbes Health.

The study looked at ten metrics across 93 U.S. cities, including the percentage of wheelchair-friendly rentals, how pedestrian-friendly a city is, and the number of accessible restaurants and attractions per capita.

It's an important look at how a city functions, as the study notes that 12.1% of adults in the U.S. have mobility needs. St. Paul and Minneapolis ranked 3rd and 5th, respectively.

The St. Paul skyline

Photo by Christine Schuster | Bring Me The News.

Here are the top five cities, according to the study.

Honolulu, Hawaii
Irving, Texas
St. Paul, Minn.
Portland, Ore.
Minneapolis, Minn.

St. Paul placed highly, in part, because it ranked seventh in walk score, which measures pedestrian friendliness, including wheelchair accessibility. It also ranked 18th in accessible nature trails. (The study looked at accessible trails listed by AllTrails.)

Minneapolis' score was bolstered by having the fourth-highest number of buildings constructed since 2010, which makes them more likely to meet new accessibility regulations. It also ranks 16th in the number of wheelchair-accessible grocery stores per capita.

"Our research reveals that some cities in the U.S. are paving the way in creating accessible places that all can enjoy while others need significant improvement," Alena Hall, Managing Editor at Forbes Health, said. "Fortunately, modern design developments are extending beyond the basic guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act to include accessible features like walk-in tubs, stair lifts, and shower chairs in residential buildings."

Minnesota's biggest cities ranked well compared to Midwestern neighbors. The next highest city in a neighboring state was Madison, Wis. at 34th. Other Midwestern cities in the study include Lincoln, Neb. (46th), Omaha, Neb. (54th), Milwaukee, Wis. (57th), and Chicago, Ill. (79th).

National bus service FlixBus moves into St. Paul's Union Depot

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 16:55:01 +0000

Intercity bus service FlixBus is moving its St. Paul hub.

The bus line added service at St. Paul's Union Depot beginning on Aug. 1, moving its St. Paul location from a parking lot to the bustling station used by familiar services like Greyhound and Amtrak.

FlixBus is owned by the German company Flix SE, which purchased Greyhound Lines in 2021. The move brings the two companies under one roof in St. Paul, providing riders easier transfers between the services.

FlixBus

Courtesy of FlixBus

FlixBus, which bills itself as the fastest-growing intercity bus service on the continent, will also more easily connect to Metro Transit and Minnesota Valley Transit Authority services with the change. The bus service will continue to stop at 516 2nd Ave. N in Minneapolis as it had previously.

“We are excited to relocate our Twin Cities operations to Union Depot,” Francesca Waldman, FlixBus' Team Lead for Public Affairs, said in a statement. “This move will provide our customers with greater accessibility to various transportation options, including Greyhound routes, and a unique travel experience in a historic and bustling location.”

Union Depot recently announced that it will also be home to a new restaurant, 1881 by Lake Elmo Inn, run by John and Christine Schiltz, who also run the namesake Lake Elmo Inn.

Minneapolis park workers vote to approve contract after 22-day strike

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 16:25:45 +0000

After a 22-day strike, Minneapolis park workers voted to approve new contracts on Aug. 1.

The workers, represented by LIUNA Local 363, had a contentious battle with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board up until a tentative deal was struck late last week on deals for full-time and seasonal employees. The union says workers "voted overwhelmingly" to approve the contracts.

"Our members' sacrifices and solidarity yielded more than improved wages and benefits," union Business Manager A.J. Lange said. "We reaffirmed that Minneapolis is a union town. This victory extends beyond our union, demonstrating the power of working people when they stand united. We stood up against anti-worker, union busting at the Park Board and sent a clear message all workers deserve dignity and respect."

Park workers rally on July 10.

LIUNA Local 363

The deal won't officially be put in place until the contract is approved by the board. However, MPRB leadership expects the Park Board Commissioners to approve the contracts during an Aug. 7 meeting.

"The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is excited to move forward and continue providing great service to our park users and residents of Minneapolis," Al Bangoura, MPRB Superintendent, said in a statement. "Parks are about people, and we have always counted on hard-working employees."

The contracts include a 10.25% cost of living adjustment over three years and a $1.75 an hour market adjustment for some employees. The union said it also protected existing steward rights in the contract, a key point that was reported to hold up negotiations late in the process. Seasonal employees also retained union rights and doubled comp time benefits.

"This contract fight is only part of our shared struggle for dignity and justice for the working class," Lange continued. "Together, we'll build on this momentum to create stronger, more equitable workplaces for fellow working people."

Minneapolis-based magazine Game Informer ending publication

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 15:35:20 +0000

Game Informer on X

Minneapolis-based magazine Game Informer is shuttering its operation after more than three decades, it announced Friday on X.

“From the early days of pixelated adventures to today's immersive virtual realms, we've been honored to share this incredible journey with you, our loyal readers,” the announcement read.

“While our presses may stop, the passion for gaming that we've cultivated together will continue to live on.”

The Final Level: Farewell from Game Informer

St. Paul man charged with strangling priest to death on the side of I-94

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 14:32:25 +0000

A St. Paul man is facing murder charges after he allegedly strangled a priest to death on the side of Interstate 94, claiming voices in his head told him to.

Nathan Thomas Wondra, 32, was charged with one count of 2nd-degree murder in Ramsey County Court earlier this week. Wondra is accused of killing 76-year-old Lawrence Johnson.

On Thursday at around 12:40 p.m., Wondra called 911 and stated that he was having a psychotic break and had choked an elderly man, according to the criminal complaint. The man, who Wondra said was a priest, had reportedly not been breathing for 30 minutes.

A state trooper found Wondra on the side of I-94 near Prior Avenue. There, Wondra stated that he had just murdered Johnson and that he had been hearing voices and having visions for the past five days.

Ramsey County Jail

Johnson was taken to Regions Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. An autopsy from the Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s Office later determined that Johnson’s cause of death was strangulation.

In an interview with investigators, Wondra said he had met Johnson at his work a year ago and that the two had become friends. Wondra said he had asked Johnson to take him to the hospital on Thursday.

As the two were driving, Wondra said he told Johnson to pull over. He then proceeded to strangle Johnson. Wondra stated that voices in his head told him to do so and that it was his “last chance to save humanity.”

President Biden, Nancy Pelosi reportedly fans of Tim Walz in running mate stakes

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 13:47:08 +0000

With Kamala Harris set to name her running mate in the coming days, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has some very lofty admirers in the Democratic Party.

CNN reported on Friday that while President Joe Biden is believed to favor Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, he is also a big fan of the Minnesota governor.

One of the president's senior advisors told CNN that Walz is "just a blast."

Walz has seen his profile grow during the running mate stakes, with several interviews on national TV going viral, with the governor also credited with using the term "weird" to attack the policies, ideals and comments of the Republican Party under former president Donald Trump.

Office of Governor Tim Walz

He has another admirer in former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who continues to wield a lot of influence in the Democratic Party, including reportedly playing a pivotal role in convincing Biden not to run for re-election this year.

The Hill is reporting that a number of House Democrats "increasingly advocating" for Walz, who served several terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, and that Pelosi "appears to be leaning in Walz's favor."

The outlet cited "a source familiar with the California Democrat's thinking" who said Pelosi is "always especially fond of former House colleagues" when asked about her running mate preference.

Harris is due to present her running mate at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday. Walz has events planned in Minnesota on that day, but a lot can change in politics in a few days.

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Akeley man arrested after shooting man in leg during fight at his home

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 13:15:46 +0000

A man was airlifted to a hospital after turning up at the Akeley home of a man with whom he had argued earlier in the day and being shot in the leg.

Hubbard County Sheriff Cory Aukes says that at 12:16 a.m., his office received a report of a person claiming to have been assaulted at his home in rural Akeley.

The 26-year-old from Akeley said someone assaulted him, which caused him to shoot him in the leg.

Upon arrival, officers located a 25-year-old man lying on the ground outside of the home, severely bleeding from a gunshot wound to his leg.

The victim was taken to St Joseph's Hospital in Park Rapids and then airlifted to Sanford Hospital in Fargo.

Investigation shows that the argument started earlier in the evening as the two men exchanged threatening texts.

The victim and another individual arrived at the suspect's home, pounding on his door. He opened his door, and a fight started. The man was carrying a loaded handgun and fired one shot, striking the victim in the leg.

The suspect was arrested for 2nd-degree assault and taken to Hubbard County Jail.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

Cargill billionaire’s foundation quietly closes after giving out unprecedented $500 million

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 12:46:22 +0000

Former Cargill CEO Whitney MacMillan’s WEM Foundation dissolved last December after more than three decades of keeping a low-profile as one of the state’s largest private foundations.

Severe storms bringing large hail, damaging wind in Minnesota on Saturday

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 12:31:21 +0000

Another round of severe weather is likely for Minnesota on Saturday, with weather officials large hail and "damaging" winds are the main risk factors.

West-central and southwest Minnesota have the highest risk for severe weather, with heat indices expected to climb to around 100F before storms break out in the afternoon and evening.

"There is still uncertainty on the exact timing and placement in the storms given the recent HiRes models," the NWS forecast discussion reads. "One limiting factor is the lack of forcing together with the fairly stout capping inversion, but the overall environment does support the threat for large hail and damaging winds."

"Low level shear is light, which keeps the tornado threat low," it adds.

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NWS Twin Cities

Much of central, western and southern Minnesota is in the "slight risk" zone for severe weather, but so is the western Twin Cities metro, with the main threat remaining west of I-35.

Saturday's storm could be followed by more chances for thunderstorms on Sunday into Monday, but those storms are not expected to turn severe.

Monday however will bring a fresh round of rain that ushers in an unseasonably cold week in Minnesota, with the potential of 2-3 inches of rain across much of the affected area, with higher amounts possible locally.

Rosemount's Payton Otterdahl reaches Olympic shot put finals

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 20:26:52 +0000

Rosemount native Payton Otterdahl posted one of the top marks in the Olympic men's shot put qualifying on Friday to advance to the finals Saturday in Paris.

Otterdahl, 28, had a 21.52-meter throw on his first attempt, making himself the top finisher in Group B, which booked his ticket to the finals. Otterdahl will be one of three Americans competing in the final alongside Joe Kovacs and Ryan Crouser.

Police raids shed light on Minnesota’s weak laws, fragmented oversight of animal rescues

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 19:12:45 +0000

Proposed law changes have failed in the Legislature in recent years, but some are expected to be considered again in 2025.

Lakeville's Regan Smith wins her third silver medal at Paris Olympics

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 19:07:45 +0000

Lakeville's Regan Smith won her third silver medal of the Paris Olympics on Friday, coming in second in the 200M backstroke. Once again, she finished just behind Australia's Kaylee McKeown, who is the first swimmer to ever sweep the backstroke events in consecutive Olympic games.

REGAN SMITH TAKES SILVER IN THE 200M BACK

Minneapolis bike co-op will close after 22 years of business

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 19:05:35 +0000

The Hub Bike Co-op will close after 22 years of operation at the end of September amid ongoing financial channelges.

Worker ownership announced on Friday that the Minnehaha Avenue and Oak Street Hub, Dinkytown locations will close on September 30.

The repair queue will end on August 31, with the co-op saying all repair requests in its queue will be completed.

Facebook

"This is not the fate that any current or former worker owner wished to see," the press statement reads.

Based on the company's financial situation and how this year has proceeded, the co-op said "there is simply no path for The Hub to survive the winter and reemerge in the spring."

The Minnehaha location briefly closed in 2023 while looking for a better location, but reopened quickly due to the unseasonably warm winter.

"But as the summer wore on and market conditions showed little improvement from previous seasons, it became clear that our return could not be permanent," the co-op said.

There will be announcements about closing sales, events, and limited edition Hub merchandise to celebrate the legacy of The Hub Bike Co-Op.

"We are grieving this decision, but we don’t wish this to be a somber event," Facebook reads.

Rabid skunks prompt rising rabies cases in Minnesota

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 18:39:57 +0000

Jp Lawrence at the Star Tribune is reporting rabies cases in Minnesota have increased in the first seven months of this year compared to the same period over the past three years, primarily due to an uptick in rabid skunks.

Via The Associated Press: Dane County Circuit Judge Everett Mitchell refused Thursday to put on hold his ruling that allows disabled people in Wisconsin to be emailed absentee ballots at home in November’s presidential election in the closely watched battleground state. Republicans asked the judge to not enforce his ruling while their appeal is pending.

Elliot Hughes at the Star Tribune is reporting a man died from injuries he received Thursday after being assaulted in the car he was driving along Interstate 94 in St. Paul.

Via Bring Me the News: The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will auction off confiscated fishing and hunting equipment starting this month. The first auction will take place on Aug. 23 and run through Aug. 26.

Cody Matz at FOX 9 reports a hailstone found on Wednesday just outside Chokio in Stevens County may have tied a state record at just under 6 inches in diameter.

Cute photo alert: WDIO is reporting the Lake Superior Zoo has received two new residents from the San Diego Zoo: sand cats name Tony and Pumpkin.

The post Rabid skunks prompt rising rabies cases in Minnesota appeared first on MinnPost.

Tackling waste requires partnerships

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 18:15:00 +0000

Materials that can be remade into new products are too often treated like garbage. Half of the recyclable materials in the Twin Cities end up in landfills or worse, littered in our natural surroundings. The fact is Minnesota landfills are running out of space, and we are missing easy opportunities to conserve resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

But this doesn’t have to be the case. There is significant work underway to keep more valuable resources in use by optimizing recycling systems.

Eureka Recycling, a leading nonprofit recycling organization, is a longstanding player in driving Minneapolis toward material circularity. Every day, its materials recovery facility captures an average of 400 to 450 tons of recyclable materials from the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. Those materials are sold to producers so they can be remade into new products — creating a circular economy for recyclables. The more efficient the recycling system is, the more resources we conserve, the less new material we use, and fewer emissions enter the atmosphere.

But continued efficiency and convenience require investment and collaboration. That’s where the private sector can make a difference.

To support Eureka in advancing its industry-leading work to reduce waste, American Beverage partnered with Closed Loop Partners, a firm at the forefront of building the circular economy, to lend millions of dollars to support state-of-the-art upgrades to modernize Eureka’s facility. The more than $10 million loan from Closed Loop Partners’ catalytic capital group includes $3 million from American Beverage and the Minnesota Beverage Association. Alongside the loan, the Recycling Partnership provided a grant to support this project. The financing will fund new, highly efficient optical sorters to separate materials and increase what’s being remade into new products.

This type of collaboration is what’s needed to ensure all materials that can be remade are remade. That’s why America’s leading beverage companies, with Closed Loop Partners and The Recycling Partnership, have marshaled the equivalent of $400 million through the Every Bottle Back initiative to improve recycling systems. Every Bottle Back advances public and private projects in communities across the country that modernize infrastructure, improve technology and educate consumers.

For the non-alcoholic beverage industry, supporting Eureka means more of our fully recyclable plastic bottles and aluminum cans can be remade — as intended. Every year, the facility upgrades will generate an estimated 222 more tons of recycled PET plastic for new bottles and an additional 248 tons of recycled aluminum for new cans. Making more of these containers out of recycled material reduces the use of new plastic and aluminum in bottles and cans and keeps them out of landfills — where they were never intended to be.

The impact of these partnerships is even greater when supported by good recycling policy, like Minnesota’s recently enacted Packaging Waste and Cost Reduction Act. American Beverage, Closed Loop Partners, Eureka and other private and nonprofit groups supported this law because it establishes a true Extended Producer Responsibility program for packaging. Once up and running, Minnesota’s EPR system will increase access to recycling, create local jobs and save municipalities money.

Reducing waste and improving recycling in this country is possible. It is happening right now in Minnesota with investments like ours and with well-designed material collection and processing systems. And we can get farther faster by working across sectors to drive solutions.

Megan Daum is vice president for sustainability at the American Beverage Association. Jennifer Louie is managing director and head of the Closed Loop Infrastructure Group at Closed Loop Partners.

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Charges: Man with a history of unregistered deer, bear, wolf kills also shot neighbor's dog

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 18:13:45 +0000

A Hines man is facing multiple charges after allegedly shooting a neighbor's dog to death, as well as racking up myriad of unregistered hunting kills dating back to 2001.

On November 11, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Conservation Officer Demo Regas saw two men on an approach near Rice Pond Road. Brandon James Mutchler, 26, had a rifle slung over his shoulder and appeared to be deer hunting. The other man was identified as his father.

When reviewing their hunting license statuses, the officer remembered a TIP regarding Mutchler's possible deer over-limit violation committed in 2022.

Authorities also found taxidermy records showing Mutchler sent deer antlers for two different kills to two different taxidermists, each with separate kill dates of November 3, 2022, and November 5, 2022.

Credit: Fishiker via Flickr

When initially questioned, Mutchler said that he had not harvested any deer in the past two years. He later changed his story, admitting that he shot but did not register a single deer in 2022, claiming his girlfriend hit the other deer he sent to the taxidermist on November 5, which was later proven to be false.

On February 1, 2024, law enforcement conducted a search warrant at Mutchler's home to locate hunting equipment and the 26-year-old's cellphone(s).

Inside the home, multiple hunting weapons were found, including arrows found with dried blood still on them. A white freezer that contained several packages of deer meat was also found in the home.

While walking through the garage area, officers found multiple deer antlers and skulls dating back to 2001. Officers also found photographs, journals, and other items "memorializing" different hunts.

The same day, officers searched Mutchler's second residence, where they found him. Officers took his cell phone and later obtained a warrant to search it. Hundreds of photos were found of Mutchler, his father, and his brother harvesting or posing with multiple kills dating back to 2009. Included are deer, a bear in 2021 and 2022, and a timberwolf in 2023.

During the cellphone search, officers also found that he searched on the internet, "mn man charged with shooting too many deer," "fingerprints and DNA off a shot .22 shell case," and "man sentenced for shooting dogs."

In August 2023, the Beltrami County Sheriff's Office took a report of a German Shepard named Cisco shot on his owner's property, located near to Mutchler's home, making him a prime suspect. Shell casings found at the scene also matched the ones mentioned in his internet search history.

He is currently facing 14 charges, two of them being a felony for the death of the dog. His first court appearance is scheduled for August 28 at 8:30 a.m.

Supersized hailstone nearly breaks Minnesota record

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 17:50:12 +0000

One of the largest hailstones in Minnesota's recorded history fell from the sky in a rural area near the town of Chokio in Stevens County on Wednesday, July 31.

When the storm report at 4:48 p.m. Wednesday said 5-inch hailstones will unleashing from a severe thunderstorm three miles northwest of Chokio, it was easy to assume it there was an error in the reporting. But lo and behold it was fact and 5-inch hailstones were pummeling the area, including one mammoth chunk of hail measured at approximately six inches in diameter.

Matthew Benson of Everglade Township snapped photograph proof of the monsters.

Matthew Benson

View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article

The beast that measured nearly half a foot across — officially 5.7 inches, per the National Weather Service — is the largest hailstone recorded in Minnesota since 1986.

The state record is 6.0 inches, having occurred near the town of Reading in southwestern Minnesota in 1986 and before that near Elgin in southwestern Minnesota in 1955.

What's a bit terrifying is that massive hailstones of 4+ inches in diameter can fall from the sky at up to 100 mph, according to the National Weather Service. Typically, the bigger the hailstone, the faster it falls, though there are quite a few variables that affect the fall speed.

The largest hailstone known to man in the United States is exactly eight inches in diameter. It came from a storm near Vivian, South Dakota on July 23, 2010.

Arrest warrant issued for driver in crash that seriously injured Hopkins student

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 16:49:01 +0000

The Minnetonka man allegedly responsible for a high-speed crash back in March that left a 17-year-old Hopkins student gravely injured has been charged and a warrant issued for his arrest.

Mohamed Aydarus Salad, 29, was driving his Chevy Equinox along Highway 7 when he slammed into another car driven by Hopkins student Lauren Olson, which left her in a coma for a week and in the hospital for a month.

A criminal complaint says that Olson was stopped in a Nissan Rogue at a red light on westbound Highway 7, waiting to turn left and proceed southbound on Williston Road.

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When the light turned green, she went through the intersection, where Salad sped past her right shoulder and hit her car, causing her to hit a light pole.

Video showed Salad's vehicle traveling on the shoulder at speeds of 68-74 mph, where the speed limit is 55. At the moment of the crash, he was traveling around 86 mph.

A sample of Salad's blood was taken for analysis, which showed no alcohol or controlled substances in his system. He has had prior convictions for driving with a suspended license, careless driving, and other driving-related offenses.

He is not in custody yet, but the state has requested a warrant. He also has an active warrant for his arrest after failing to appear for misdemeanor theft.